January 1 is the start of 200 new state laws being passed in Illinois. When taking a poll, these are just some of the laws that were seen as making the biggest impact.
- In 2016, drivers were required to switch lanes or slow down for an emergency vehicle. Now, in 2017, this law applies to all cars that have their hazard lights on.
- The next new law of 2017 lets officers impound and seize a vehicle if a driver does not have insurance after being warned, and is caught again in a 12-month period. In 2016 the car would only be towed.
- Another new one requires employers to let workers use up to half of their sick time to care for their sick families.
- Drivers who attempt to drive around lowered gates at railroad crossings will face stiffer fines. Fines increased to $500 for the first offense and $1,000 for every additional violation.
- Employers now do not have the right to ask employees for their user names and passwords to their personal social media accounts.
- Patients will now receive information about all treatment options, regardless of the medical professional’s religious beliefs, including thoughts on abortion referrals.
- Sales tax is to be eliminated on feminine hygiene products, including tampons and menstrual pads (certain stores only).
- Children who are victims of battery and domestic abuse can now testify using a closed-circuit television to spare them the hurt that testifying in an open court can cause.
It's always important to be informed about new changes being made in your state. Regardless of if you are aware that law has changed or not, these restrictions are still put in place and the penalty is the same. These are only eight of the 200 new laws in the state of Illinois, make sure to take the time and become aware!
